Atlanta, September 12, 2025
News Summary
A Georgia State University student has tested positive for measles, marking the seventh confirmed case in Georgia this year. The student, unvaccinated, engaged in numerous public activities while infectious. Health officials are conducting a contact investigation to identify those potentially exposed. This raises concerns about vaccination rates in Georgia, where only 86.8% of children are fully up-to-date on MMR vaccinations, prompting warnings about the risk of further outbreaks.
Atlanta—An unvaccinated student at Georgia State University (GSU) has tested positive for measles, representing the seventh confirmed case of the disease in Georgia this year. The diagnosis was confirmed by the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH), prompting a wide-ranging investigation into potential contacts, given the student’s extensive public interactions during the infectious period.
The student displayed symptoms after engaging in numerous activities on campus and attending Inter Atlanta FC soccer games and practices between September 2 and September 11. In addition to GSU facilities, the student was at the Sweetgreen restaurant located in Ponce City Market. Notably, the student is not an on-campus resident and had not recently traveled internationally, which is often a main contributor to measles outbreaks in the United States.
Measles is known for its high contagion rates, with the virus capable of remaining airborne for up to two hours after an infected individual has left an area. Health officials indicate that approximately 9 out of 10 unprotected individuals exposed to the virus will become infected. This recent case has raised alarms as it further underscores concerns related to vaccination rates.
The DPH is executing a comprehensive contact investigation in partnership with the Fulton County Board of Health, GSU, Inter Atlanta FC, and Sweetgreen to alert individuals who may have been exposed to the virus. The Fulton County Board of Health is also focusing on screenings and contact tracing efforts.
In response to the rising incidence of measles cases, health authorities are advising medical providers to remain vigilant for signs of measles, particularly among unvaccinated patients. Vaccination against measles is highly encouraged as it remains the most effective method for prevention, typically administered in two doses during childhood.
While GSU mandates vaccinations for its students, exemptions are permitted for religious reasons upon signing an affidavit. Georgia witnessed a previous total of six measles cases earlier this year, with this incident marking the seventh confirmed case. Of note, recent outbreaks in Georgia included cases related to unvaccinated children from the same family who had traveled to New York, and another involving a family after international travel.
Nationally, there have been 1,454 cases of measles reported, with significant outbreaks in Texas, New Mexico, South Carolina, Alabama, and Florida. Tragically, two unvaccinated children in Texas and an adult in New Mexico have died from the disease. Additionally, there was a fatality in California involving a child who contracted measles during infancy before the age of vaccination.
Currently, vaccination rates in Georgia are concerning, with only 86.8% of children fully up-to-date on their measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccinations last year. Public health officials warn that declining vaccination rates may lead to further increases in measles cases, especially among vulnerable populations such as unvaccinated infants. There is also rising concern regarding vaccine hesitancy, which may threaten public trust in health institutions and amplify the risk of outbreaks.
Symptoms of measles typically present 7 to 14 days post-exposure, manifesting as fever, cough, runny nose, red watery eyes, and a characteristic rash. Individuals who suspect they have been infected with measles are advised to contact healthcare providers prior to visiting clinics or hospitals to prevent spreading the infection to others.
FAQ
What is measles?
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that presents with symptoms such as fever, cough, runny nose, red watery eyes, and a rash. It can linger in the air for hours, making it easy for the virus to spread.
How does the measles virus spread?
The measles virus spreads primarily through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also stay airborne and infect others for several hours after the infected individual has left the area.
What can individuals do to prevent measles?
The most effective way to prevent measles is through vaccination. The MMR vaccine is recommended in two doses during childhood. Maintaining high vaccination rates also contributes to herd immunity, protecting vulnerable populations.
What should I do if I suspect I have measles?
If you suspect you have measles, contact your healthcare provider before visiting a medical facility. This helps prevent infecting others while you seek care.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Georgia State University, and Ponce City Market |
| Case Status | Seventh case confirmed in Georgia for 2025 |
| Investigation | Comprehensive contact investigation led by DPH |
| Contagion Risk | Highly contagious, 9 out of 10 unprotected individuals may be infected |
| Public Health Response | Collaboration with various health entities for contact tracing |
| Vaccination Regulation | Mandatory for students with religious exemptions |
| Symptoms | Fever, cough, runny nose, rash, red watery eyes |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Measles Cases Surge to 30-Year High in Georgia
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Atlanta Public Schools Adjusts Academic Calendar and Leadership
Surge in Measles Cases Raises Concerns in Georgia
Top Private High Schools in Atlanta Metro Area Recognized for Excellence
Fourth Measles Case Confirmed in Georgia
Georgia Faces Measles Outbreak Amid Declining Vaccination Rates
Georgia Faces Growing Measles Outbreak Amid Misinformation
Additional Resources
- Atlanta News First: Measles Case Reported in Fulton County
- Wikipedia: Measles
- Axios: What You Need to Know About Measles in Georgia
- Google Search: Measles Outbreak in Georgia
- Atlanta News First: Georgia Officials Warn of Measles Misinformation
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Measles
- WRDW: What Georgia Residents Need to Know About Measles Outbreak
- Google News: Measles Georgia 2025
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
